Control of access to power machine functionality

ABSTRACT

A control system of a power machine can be configured to allow certain power machine functionality based on a wireless connection with a mobile device. For example, a power machine can operate in a startup mode providing limited functionality to an operator (e.g., engine power, but no workgroup actuators). Access to additional power machine functionality (e.g., full functionality) can then be permitted based on establishing a wireless connection to a mobile device that corresponds to an operator profile for the power machine.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No.63/230,195, filed Aug. 6, 2021, the entirety of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure is directed toward power machines. More particularly,this disclosure is directed toward enabling or disabling power machinefunctionality during startup procedures for power machines. Powermachines, for the purposes of this disclosure, include any type ofmachine that generates power to accomplish a particular task or avariety of tasks. One type of power machine is a work vehicle. Workvehicles are generally self-propelled vehicles that have a work device,such as a lift arm (although some work vehicles can have other workdevices) that can be manipulated to perform a work function. Workvehicles include loaders, excavators, utility vehicles, tractorsincluding compact tractors, and trenchers, to name a few examples. Othertypes of power machines can include mini-loaders (e.g., mini trackloaders), and mowers.

The discussion above is merely provided for general backgroundinformation and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining thescope of the claimed subject matter.

SUMMARY

Examples of the disclosed subject matter can use a wireless connectionbetween a mobile device and a power machine to provide access to certainpower machine functionality. In some examples, this can allow operatorsto execute certain operations under a limited functionality mode until aconnection is established between a power machine and an approvedoperator's mobile device. The mobile device can sometimes be associatedwith a corresponding operation profile, and the power machine canexecute operations based on that operation profile (e.g., switch to afull functionality mode, to allow for full operation of all powermachine functions).

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a control systemfor a power machine is provided. The control system can include an inputdevice operatively connected to a power source of the power machine anda control device. The control device can be configured to enableoperation of the power source of the power machine based upon receivinga signal of the input device (e.g., due to a manual actuation thereof).After receiving the signal of the input device, the control device canrestrict operation of one or more power machine functions for the powermachine until a wireless connection is established between thecontroller and a mobile device, the mobile device corresponding to anoperation profile for the power machine.

In some examples, one or more power machine functions for whichoperation is restricted can include one or more of: operation oftractive elements or operation of work elements (e.g., workgroupelements).

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a method ofoperating a power machine with a user input interface is provided.According to the method, upon receiving an initial user input toactivate a power source for the power machine, the power machine can beplaced in a startup mode. Based on placing the power machine in thestartup mode, limited access can be provided to power machinefunctionality according to permissions of the startup mode. The methodfurther includes searching, via a controller in communication with theuser input interface, for one or more mobile devices, establishing awireless connection between a mobile device and the power machine toidentify an association between the mobile device and an operationprofile for the power machine, and based on identifying the associationbetween the mobile device and the operation profile, allowing access toadditional power machine functionality that corresponds to the operationprofile.

In some examples, permissions of a startup mode can include operation ofa power source of a power machine, but not operation of one or more workelements of the power machine (e.g., tractive or workgroup elements). Insome examples, additional power machine functionality for which accessis allowed can be distinct from operation of a power source of a powermachine and can include one of more of: operation of tractive elementsor operation of work elements (e.g., workgroup elements). In someexamples, additional power machine functionality can include full powermachine functionality. In some examples, a mobile device can include oneof a mobile phone, a tablet, a laptop, or a personal digital assistant.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a power machine isprovided. The power machine can include a power source, an operatorstation, and a user input interface within the operator station,including an input device configured to receive input for activation ofthe power source by an operator in the operator station. The powermachine can further include one or more tractive elements configured tomove the power machine, one or more work elements configured to beoperated for work operations using power from the power source, and acontrol system. The control system can be configured to activate thepower source based upon a signal from the input device. After activatingthe power source, the control system can be further configured to:initially provide limited access to power machine functionality;establish a wireless connection with a mobile device that corresponds toan operation profile; and based upon establishing the wirelessconnection and after initially providing the limited access to powermachine functionality, provide access to one or more additional powermachine functions based on the operation profile.

In some examples, a control system can be configured to: beforeestablishing a wireless connection with a mobile device, identifypotential wireless connections with a plurality of mobile devices,including the mobile device; and prioritize establishing the wirelessconnection with the mobile device based on one or more of proximity,signal strength, or a predetermined priority list. In some examples, auser input interface can include a display configured to receive anactivation code. A control system can be configured to bypass receipt ofthe activation code via the display, based on establishing a wirelessconnection with a mobile device.

This Summary and the Abstract are provided to introduce a selection ofconcepts in a simplified form that are further described below in theDetailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify keyfeatures or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor arethey intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of theclaimed subject matter.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating functional systems of arepresentative power machine on which examples of the present disclosurecan be advantageously practiced.

FIGS. 2-3 illustrate perspective views of a representative power machinein the form of a skid-steer loader of the type on which the disclosedexamples can be practiced.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating components of a power system of aloader such as the loader illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 .

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of an operating systemfor use with power machines, of a type on which the disclosed examplescan be practiced.

FIG. 6 illustrates a process of locking and unlocking power machinefunctionality based on a connection with a mobile device.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate example graphical user interfaces generated on auser input interface for controlling connections between the powermachine and one or more mobile devices associated with one or moreoperation profiles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The concepts disclosed in this discussion are described and illustratedby referring to certain examples. These concepts, however, are notlimited in their application to the details of construction and thearrangement of components in the illustrative examples and are capableof being practiced or being carried out in various other ways. Theterminology in this document is used for the purpose of description andshould not be regarded as limiting. Words such as “including,”“comprising,” and “having” and variations thereof as used herein aremeant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, aswell as additional items.

As used herein, the phrases “initialization process” or “computerinitialization process” refer to operations executed by a computerizeddevice when it is powered on, to prepare the device for normal operation(e.g., running BIOS or other startup procedures, activating touchscreenor other input devices, etc.). Similarly, “startup processes” refer tooperations of a power machine, starting from an unpowered state, toprepare the power machine from powered operation (e.g., tractive andwork operations).

Also as used herein, “power machine functionality” refers generally tomovement- and power-based operations of a power machine, such asoperation of a power source (e.g., engine or battery), a powerconversion system that converts output from a power source into a formusable by work elements, and operation of work elements such as tractiveelements and other actuators that can move work elements (e.g., liftarms or other devices), and so on. “Power machine functionality” can bedistinguished from “operating system functionality,” which refersspecifically to operation of display screens or other input/outputdevices for a control system, operation of computer-based securitysystems (e.g., lock-out systems), and general operation of otherelectronic control devices (e.g., hub controllers, etc.). Of note,however, certain power machine functionality may necessarily include orrely on operating system functionality, including during electroniccontrol of hydraulic equipment, user input interfaces (e.g., displays),sensors, switches, actuators, and signaling devices.

Also as used herein, operation of a power machine with “limited” powermachine functionality indicates operation of the power machine withaccess to only a subset of possible power machine functionality. Incontrast, operation of a power machine with “full” power machinefunctionality indicates operation of the power machine with power beingavailable for all power machine functions without restriction, (i.e.,normal power machine operation). Generally, operation with limited powermachine functionality can include fully restricted operation (i.e., nofunctionality of the power machine is permitted) or partially restrictedoperation (i.e., some functionality is permitted, as in the non-limitingexamples below).

In some cases, limited power machine functionality can include operationof systems for non-work functions only, including operation of inputdevices (e.g., joystick, push-buttons, or touchscreen displays), radios,climate control systems, etc. In some cases, limited power machinefunctionality can be provided for a power machine even though a powersource (e.g., an engine of the power machine) may be running. Forexample, a power source may be activated, but a user that has beenpermitted to access limited power machine functionality may not be ablecause power to be delivered by the power source for operation of workelements or tractive elements.

Also as used herein, the phrase “mobile device” refers to a mobile phone(e.g., a feature phone or a smart phone), a tablet, a laptop, a personaldigital assistant, or other mobile device that is configured forwireless communication (e.g., for communication over Wi-Fi (e.g., 2.4GHz, 4G, 5G, etc.) and Bluetooth protocols) and can be individuallyelectronically identified via wireless communication. (Bluetooth is aregistered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. in the United States orother jurisdictions).

Also as used herein, the phrase “physical key” refers to a traditionalkey or key fob, typically made of metal, plastic, or combinationsthereof, that can be used to access an operator compartment of a powermachine and/or start the machine. In this regard, a “mechanical”physical key can be configured to mechanically engage a lock on a powermachine door or other component such as a key switch on a user inputpanel.

Also as used herein, an “operation profile” refers to a stored recordthat indicates one or more permissions, preferences, or other propertiesrelated to the operation features. For example, some operation profilesmay include settings that indicate a variety of different powerfunctionality (e.g., functionality relating to traction systems,specific workgroup actuators, geographical boundaries, etc.), settingsthat define operational preferences of a particular operator (e.g.,relating to cab/comfort settings, response characteristics of particularactuators, etc.), or settings that otherwise characterize response orpermissions for power machine operations.

Under conventional designs, power machines may be equipped to provide arange of controlled power machine functionality, including via access toand control of: power from a power source (e.g., the ability to start orengage an engine), actuators for tractive operations (i.e., operationsfor travel over terrain), workgroup actuators for work operations (e.g.,operation of hydraulic actuators for non-travel activities), comfort andother operation settings (e.g., climate control), and so on.Correspondingly, power machines generally include various controldevices that control various functions, including one or more operatorinterfaces configured to receive operator inputs.

Some examples of the disclosed technology can provide improved startupprocedures for power machines, improved management of access toparticular power machine functionality, or improved (e.g., automated)configuration of power machine systems according to operator preferencesor other operation profile information (e.g., functional permissions).For example, in some implementations, a control device can be configuredto establish a wireless connection with a mobile device to determineappropriate permissions to correspondingly enable (i.e., permit accessto and control of) select relevant power machine functionality. Thus,for example, a power machine can be configured to automatically permitcertain (e.g., all) power machine operations for authorized users, andto execute those operations according to appropriate operationpreferences (e.g., with customized response to control inputs), withoutnecessarily requiring operators to use a mechanical key or otherwisemanually engage with a control system to identify themselves anddemonstrate appropriate authorization. Thus, some examples can help toprevent unauthorized access to power machine functionality, whilestreamlining access—and startup procedures generally—for authorizedusers.

In some examples, limited power machine functionality may be providedduring a startup process before a mobile device is used to authorizeparticular power machine operations. For example, an operator mayinitiate an initialization process for a control system of a powermachine (e.g., may turn on a touchscreen), or initiate a startup processfor a power source of the power machine (e.g., may press an “Engine On”button) or for the power machine generally. In some cases, certaininitialization (or startup) operations can then be executed accordingly,but full functionality and operation of the power machine may not beinitially permitted. In other words, an operator may be permitted accessto only limited power machine functionality during a startup mode of apower machine.

As part of startup operations, or at other times, the control system canthen search for and establish a wireless connection with one or moremobile devices and can permit access to additional power machinefunctionality based on the established connection(s). For example, afteran operator initiates startup for an engine or an input interface (e.g.,a touchscreen), communication can be established via a wirelessconnection between a control system and a mobile device of the operatorthat has been previously associated with the control system of the powermachine (e.g., it has been paired with the control system previouslyusing a Bluetooth protocol). When the mobile device is paired with thecontrol system, the operator who pairs the mobile device can establish alist of operation profiles that can be used by the power machine when itis connected to that particular mobile device in the future by, forexample, excluding some of the available operation profiles. Theavailable operation profiles for that mobile device will then be kepttrack of in the control system of the power machine. In some examples,the previously associated mobile device will detect and establishcommunication with the control system. In some examples, the controlsystem will detect and establish communication with the previouslyassociated mobile device. Once this communication is established, thecontrol system will allow the power machine to operate according to oneof the previously defined operation profiles that is selected in thecontrol system. For example, once the association between the mobiledevice and the operation profile has been established, the controlsystem can then permit additional power machine functionality for theuser (e.g., full power machine functionality) based on the operationprofile. The operation profile may be a default operation profile, orthe operator may be able to choose from a plurality of operationprofiles available to the operator once the communication has beenestablished by selecting one from a list provided to the operator.However, during the startup operations, and before an associationbetween the mobile device and the operation profile has beenestablished, the control system may permit limited power machinefunctionality for the user (e.g., no functionality whatsoever;functionality that includes only operation of an engine; functionalitythat includes operation of an engine and HVAC equipment; etc.).Similarly, if the connected mobile device is not associated with anoperation profile with approved access (or is not associated with anoperation profile at all), the control system may continue to provideaccess only to limited power machine functionality, at least untilappropriate authorization for the operator can be otherwise verified. Insome examples, an operator may enable full functionality of a controlsystem on the power machine even if a wireless connection is not madebetween the control system and a mobile device, provided the operatortakes additional steps like entering a passcode manually into a displayor using a physical key.

In some cases (as mentioned above), computerized devices on the powermachine can automatically begin searching for, and establishing,wireless connections with mobile devices during a startup mode (e.g.,during startup processes that precede verification of authorization).For example, an initialization input from an operator (e.g., an “engineon” input) can cause a control system to automatically search for nearbymobile devices and attempt to establish wireless connectionsaccordingly. Thus, for example, startup operations may proceedrelatively seamlessly in some cases, with minimal manual input fromoperators. Further, as generally noted above, certain power machinefunctionality can sometimes be available to an operator even beforewireless authorization has been completed. In some other cases, as ismentioned above, computerized devices on the power machine can be foundby mobile devices once the power machine is energized in a startup mode.

In different examples, different ranges of power machine functionalitycan be provided during startup, depending on permissions specified by acontrol system of the power machine for a startup mode. For example,some startup modes may allow the engine of a power machine to be startedbut may not allow an operator to command operations of a powerconversion system for tractive or work operations. As another example,some startup modes may allow access to some operations but not to others(e.g., may permit commanded movement of only a subset of availableactuators).

These concepts can be practiced on various power machines, as will bedescribed below. A representative power machine on which the disclosedtechnology can be practiced is illustrated in diagram form in FIG. 1 andone example of such a power machine is illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 anddescribed below before any examples are disclosed. For the sake ofbrevity, only one power machine is illustrated and discussed as being arepresentative power machine. However, as mentioned above, the examplesbelow can be practiced on any of a number of power machines, includingpower machines of different types from the representative power machineshown in FIGS. 2-3 . Power machines, for the purposes of thisdiscussion, include a frame, at least one work element, and a powersource that can provide power to the work element to accomplish a worktask. One type of power machine is a self-propelled work vehicle.Self-propelled work vehicles are a class of power machines that includea frame, work element, and a power source that can provide power to thework element. At least one of the work elements is a motive system formoving the power machine under power.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates the basic systems of a powermachine 100, which can be any of a number of different types of powermachines, upon which the examples discussed below can be advantageouslyincorporated. The block diagram of FIG. 1 identifies various systems onpower machine 100 and the relationship between various components andsystems. As mentioned above, at the most basic level, power machines forthe purposes of this discussion include a frame, a power source, and awork element. The power machine 100 has a frame 110, a power source 120,and a work element 130. Because power machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 is aself-propelled work vehicle, it also has tractive elements 140, whichare themselves work elements provided to move the power machine over asupport surface and an operator station 150 that provides an operatingposition for controlling the work elements of the power machine. Acontrol system 160 is provided to interact with the other systems toperform various work tasks at least in part in response to controlsignals provided by an operator.

Certain work vehicles have work elements that can perform a dedicatedtask. For example, some work vehicles have a lift arm to which animplement such as a bucket is attached such as by a pinning arrangement.The work element, i.e., the lift arm can be manipulated to position theimplement to perform the task. The implement, in some instances can bepositioned relative to the work element, such as by rotating a bucketrelative to a lift arm, to further position the implement. Under normaloperation of such a work vehicle, the bucket is intended to be attachedand under use. Such work vehicles may be able to accept other implementsby disassembling the implement/work element combination and reassemblinganother implement in place of the original bucket. Other work vehicles,however, are intended to be used with a wide variety of implements andhave an implement interface such as implement interface 170 shown inFIG. 1 . At its most basic, implement interface 170 is a connectionmechanism between the frame 110 or a work element 130 and an implement,which can be as simple as a connection point for attaching an implementdirectly to the frame 110 or a work element 130 or more complex, asdiscussed below.

On some power machines, implement interface 170 can include an implementcarrier, which is a physical structure movably attached to a workelement. The implement carrier has engagement features and lockingfeatures to accept and secure any of a number of different implements tothe work element. One characteristic of such an implement carrier isthat once an implement is attached to it, it is fixed to the implement(i.e. not movable with respect to the implement) and when the implementcarrier is moved with respect to the work element, the implement moveswith the implement carrier. The term implement carrier as used herein isnot merely a pivotal connection point, but rather a dedicated devicespecifically intended to accept and be secured to various differentimplements. The implement carrier itself is mountable to a work element130 such as a lift arm or the frame 110. Implement interface 170 canalso include one or more power sources for providing power to one ormore work elements on an implement. Some power machines can have aplurality of work element with implement interfaces, each of which may,but need not, have an implement carrier for receiving implements. Someother power machines can have a work element with a plurality ofimplement interfaces so that a single work element can accept aplurality of implements simultaneously. Each of these implementinterfaces can, but need not, have an implement carrier.

Frame 110 includes a physical structure that can support various othercomponents that are attached thereto or positioned thereon. The frame110 can include any number of individual components. Some power machineshave frames that are rigid. That is, no part of the frame is movablewith respect to another part of the frame. Other power machines have atleast one portion that can move with respect to another portion of theframe. For example, excavators can have an upper frame portion thatrotates with respect to a lower frame portion. Other work vehicles havearticulated frames such that one portion of the frame pivots withrespect to another portion for accomplishing steering functions.

Frame 110 supports the power source 120, which is configured to providepower to one or more work elements 130 including the one or moretractive elements 140, as well as, in some instances, providing powerfor use by an attached implement via implement interface 170. Power fromthe power source 120 can be provided directly to any of the workelements 130, tractive elements 140, and implement interfaces 170.Alternatively, power from the power source 120 can be provided to acontrol system 160, which in turn selectively provides power to theelements that capable of using it to perform a work function. Powersources for power machines typically include an engine such as aninternal combustion engine and a power conversion system such as amechanical transmission or a hydraulic system that is configured toconvert the output from an engine into a form of power that is usable bya work element. Other types of power sources can be incorporated intopower machines, including electrical sources or a combination of powersources, known generally as hybrid power sources.

FIG. 1 shows a single work element designated as work element 130, butvarious power machines can have any number of work elements. Workelements are typically attached to the frame of the power machine andmovable with respect to the frame when performing a work task. Inaddition, tractive elements 140 are a special case of work element inthat their work function is generally to move the power machine 100 overa support surface. Tractive elements 140 are shown separate from thework element 130 because many power machines have additional workelements besides tractive elements, although that is not always thecase. Power machines can have any number of tractive elements, some orall of which can receive power from the power source 120 to propel thepower machine 100. Tractive elements can be, for example, trackassemblies, wheels attached to an axle, and the like. Tractive elementscan be mounted to the frame such that movement of the tractive elementis limited to rotation about an axle (so that steering is accomplishedby a skidding action) or, alternatively, pivotally mounted to the frameto accomplish steering by pivoting the tractive element with respect tothe frame.

Power machine 100 includes an operator station 150 that includes anoperating position from which an operator can control operation of thepower machine. In some power machines, the operator station 150 isdefined by an enclosed or partially enclosed cab. Some power machines onwhich the disclosed technology may be practiced may not have a cab or anoperator compartment of the type described above. For example, a walkbehind loader may not have a cab or an operator compartment, but ratheran operating position that serves as an operator station from which thepower machine is properly operated. More broadly, power machines otherthan work vehicles may have operator stations that are not necessarilysimilar to the operating positions and operator compartments referencedabove. Further, some power machines such as power machine 100 andothers, whether or not they have operator compartments or operatorpositions, may be capable of being operated remotely (i.e. from aremotely located operator station) instead of or in addition to anoperator station adjacent or on the power machine. This can includeapplications where at least some of the operator-controlled functions ofthe power machine can be operated from an operating position associatedwith an implement that is coupled to the power machine. Alternatively,with some power machines, a remote-control device can be provided (i.e.remote from both of the power machine and any implement to which is itcoupled) that is capable of controlling at least some of theoperator-controlled functions on the power machine.

FIGS. 2-3 illustrate a loader 200, which is one particular example of apower machine of the type illustrated in FIG. 1 where the examplesdiscussed below can be advantageously employed. Loader 200 is askid-steer loader, which is a loader that has tractive elements (in thiscase, four wheels) that are mounted to the frame of the loader via rigidaxles. Here the phrase “rigid axles” refers to the fact that theskid-steer loader 200 does not have any tractive elements that can berotated or steered to help the loader accomplish a turn. Instead, askid-steer loader has a drive system that independently powers one ormore tractive elements on each side of the loader so that by providingdiffering tractive signals to each side, the machine will tend to skidover a support surface. These varying signals can even include poweringtractive element(s) on one side of the loader to move the loader in aforward direction and powering tractive element(s) on another side ofthe loader to mode the loader in a reverse direction so that the loaderwill turn about a radius centered within the footprint of the loaderitself. The term “skid-steer” has traditionally referred to loaders thathave skid steering as described above with wheels as tractive elements.However, it should be noted that many track loaders also accomplishturns via skidding and are technically skid-steer loaders, even thoughthey do not have wheels. For the purposes of this discussion, unlessnoted otherwise, the term skid-steer should not be seen as limiting thescope of the discussion to those loaders with wheels as tractiveelements. Correspondingly, although some example power machinesdiscussed herein are presented as skid-steer power machines, someexamples disclosed herein can be implemented on a variety of other powermachines. For example, some examples can be implemented on compactloaders or compact excavators that do not accomplish turns via skidding.

Loader 200 is one particular example of the power machine 100illustrated broadly in FIG. 1 and discussed above. To that end, featuresof loader 200 described below include reference numbers that aregenerally similar to those used in FIG. 1 . For example, loader 200 isdescribed as having a frame 210, just as power machine 100 has a frame110. Skid-steer loader 200 is described herein to provide a referencefor understanding one environment on which the examples described belowrelated to track assemblies and mounting elements for mounting the trackassemblies to a power machine may be practiced. The loader 200 shouldnot be considered limiting especially as to the description of featuresthat loader 200 may have described herein that are not essential to thedisclosed examples and thus may or may not be included in power machinesother than loader 200 upon which the examples disclosed below may beadvantageously practiced. Unless specifically noted otherwise, examplesdisclosed below can be practiced on a variety of power machines, withthe loader 200 being only one of those power machines. For example, someor all of the concepts discussed below can be practiced on many othertypes of work vehicles such as various other loaders, excavators,trenchers, and dozers, to name but a few examples.

Loader 200 includes frame 210 that supports a power system 220, thepower system being capable of generating or otherwise providing powerfor operating various functions on the power machine. Power system 220is shown in block diagram form, but is located within the frame 210.Frame 210 also supports a work element in the form of a lift armassembly 230 that is powered by the power system 220 and that canperform various work tasks. As loader 200 is a work vehicle, frame 210also supports a traction system 240, which is also powered by powersystem 220 and can propel the power machine over a support surface. Thelift arm assembly 230 in turn supports an implement interface 270, whichincludes an implement carrier 272 that can receive and secure variousimplements to the loader 200 for performing various work tasks and powercouplers 274, to which an implement can be coupled for selectivelyproviding power to an implement that might be connected to the loader.Power couplers 274 can provide sources of hydraulic or electric power orboth. The loader 200 includes a cab 250 that defines an operator station255 from which an operator can manipulate various control devices 260 tocause the power machine to perform various work functions. Cab 250 canbe pivoted back about an axis that extends through mounts 254 to provideaccess to power system components as needed for maintenance and repair.

The operator station 255 includes an operator seat 258 and a pluralityof operation input devices, including control levers 260 that anoperator can manipulate to control various machine functions. Operatorinput devices can include buttons, switches, levers, sliders, pedals andthe like that can be stand-alone devices such as hand operated levers orfoot pedals or incorporated into hand grips or display panels, includingprogrammable input devices. Actuation of operator input devices cangenerate signals in the form of electrical signals, hydraulic signals,and/or mechanical signals. Signals generated in response to operatorinput devices are provided to various components on the power machinefor controlling various functions on the power machine. Among thefunctions that are controlled via operator input devices on powermachine 100 include control of the tractive elements 219, the lift armassembly 230, the implement carrier 272, and providing signals to anyimplement that may be operably coupled to the implement.

Loaders can include human-machine interfaces including display devicesthat are provided in the cab 250 to give indications of informationrelatable to the operation of the power machines in a form that can besensed by an operator, such as, for example audible and/or visualindications. Audible indications can be made in the form of buzzers,bells, and the like or via verbal communication. Visual indications canbe made in the form of graphs, lights, icons, gauges, alphanumericcharacters, and the like. Displays can provide dedicated indications,such as warning lights or gauges, or dynamic to provide programmableinformation, including programmable display devices such as monitors ofvarious sizes and capabilities. Display devices can provide diagnosticinformation, troubleshooting information, instructional information, andvarious other types of information that assists an operator withoperation of the power machine or an implement coupled to the powermachine. Other information that may be useful for an operator can alsobe provided. Other power machines, such walk behind loaders may not havea cab nor an operator compartment, nor a seat. The operator position onsuch loaders is generally defined relative to a position where anoperator is best suited to manipulate operator input devices.

Various power machines that can include and/or interacting with theexamples discussed below can have various different frame componentsthat support various work elements. The elements of frame 210 discussedherein are provided for illustrative purposes and frame 210 is not theonly type of frame that a power machine on which the technology can bepracticed can employ. Frame 210 of loader 200 includes an undercarriageor lower portion 211 of the frame and a mainframe or upper portion 212of the frame that is supported by the undercarriage. The mainframe 212of loader 200, in some examples is attached to the undercarriage 211such as with fasteners or by welding the undercarriage to the mainframe.Alternatively, the mainframe and undercarriage can be integrally formed.Mainframe 212 includes a pair of upright portions 214A and 214B locatedon either side and toward the rear of the mainframe that support liftarm assembly 230 and to which the lift arm assembly 230 is pivotallyattached. The lift arm assembly 230 is illustratively pinned to each ofthe upright portions 214A and 214B. The combination of mounting featureson the upright portions 214A and 214B and the lift arm assembly 230 andmounting hardware (including pins used to pin the lift arm assembly tothe mainframe 212) are collectively referred to as joints 216A and 216B(one is located on each of the upright portions 214) for the purposes ofthis discussion. Joints 216A and 216B are aligned along an axis 218 sothat the lift arm assembly is capable of pivoting, as discussed below,with respect to the frame 210 about axis 218. Other power machines maynot include upright portions on either side of the frame or may not havea lift arm assembly that is mountable to upright portions on either sideand toward the rear of the frame. For example, some power machines mayhave a single arm, mounted to a single side of the power machine or to afront or rear end of the power machine. Other machines can have aplurality of work elements, including a plurality of lift arms, each ofwhich is mounted to the machine in its own configuration. Frame 210 alsosupports a pair of tractive elements in the form of wheels 219A-D oneither side of the loader 200.

The lift arm assembly 230 shown in FIGS. 2-3 is one example of manydifferent types of lift arm assemblies that can be attached to a powermachine such as loader 200 or other power machines on which examples ofthe present discussion can be practiced. The lift arm assembly 230 iswhat is known as a vertical lift arm, meaning that the lift arm assembly230 is moveable (i.e. the lift arm assembly can be raised and lowered)under control of the loader 200 with respect to the frame 210 along alift path 237 that forms a generally vertical path. Other lift armassemblies can have different geometries and can be coupled to the frameof a loader in various ways to provide lift paths that differ from theradial path of lift arm assembly 230. For example, some lift paths onother loaders provide a radial lift path. Other lift arm assemblies canhave an extendable or telescoping portion. Other power machines can havea plurality of lift arm assemblies attached to their frames, with eachlift arm assembly being independent of the other(s). Unless specificallystated otherwise, none of the inventive concepts set forth in thisdiscussion are limited by the type or number of lift arm assemblies thatare coupled to a particular power machine.

The lift arm assembly 230 has a pair of lift arms 234 that are disposedon opposing sides of the frame 210. A first end of each of the lift arms234 is pivotally coupled to the power machine at joints 216 and a secondend 232B of each of the lift arms is positioned forward of the frame 210when in a lowered position as shown in FIG. 2 . Joints 216 are locatedtoward a rear of the loader 200 so that the lift arms extend along thesides of the frame 210. The lift path 237 is defined by the path oftravel of the second end 232B of the lift arms 234 as the lift armassembly 230 is moved between a minimum and maximum height.

Each of the lift arms 234 has a first portion 234A of each lift arm 234is pivotally coupled to the frame 210 at one of the joints 216 and thesecond portion 234B extends from its connection to the first portion234A to the second end 232B of the lift arm assembly 230. The lift arms234 are each coupled to a cross member 236 that is attached to the firstportions 234A. Cross member 236 provides increased structural stabilityto the lift arm assembly 230. A pair of actuators 238, which on loader200 are hydraulic cylinders configured to receive pressurized fluid frompower system 220, are pivotally coupled to both the frame 210 and thelift arms 234 at pivotable joints 238A and 238B, respectively, on eitherside of the loader 200. The actuators 238 are sometimes referred toindividually and collectively as lift cylinders. Actuation (i.e.,extension and retraction) of the actuators 238 cause the lift armassembly 230 to pivot about joints 216 and thereby be raised and loweredalong a fixed path illustrated by arrow 237. Each of a pair of controllinks 217 are pivotally mounted to the frame 210 and one of the liftarms 232 on either side of the frame 210. The control links 217 help todefine the fixed lift path of the lift arm assembly 230.

Some lift arms, most notably lift arms on excavators but also possibleon loaders, may have portions that are controllable to pivot withrespect to another segment instead of moving in concert (i.e. along apre-determined path) as is the case in the lift arm assembly 230 shownin FIG. 2 . Some power machines have lift arm assemblies with a singlelift arm, such as is known in excavators or even some loaders and otherpower machines. Other power machines can have a plurality of lift armassemblies, each being independent of the other(s).

An implement interface 270 is provided proximal to a second end 232B ofthe lift arm assembly 234. The implement interface 270 includes animplement carrier 272 that is capable of accepting and securing avariety of different implements to the lift arm 230. Such implementshave a complementary machine interface that is configured to be engagedwith the implement carrier 272. The implement carrier 272 is pivotallymounted at the second end 232B of the arm 234. Implement carrieractuators 235 are operably coupled the lift arm assembly 230 and theimplement carrier 272 and are operable to rotate the implement carrierwith respect to the lift arm assembly. Implement carrier actuators 235are illustratively hydraulic cylinders and often known as tiltcylinders.

By having an implement carrier capable of being attached to a pluralityof different implements, changing from one implement to another can beaccomplished with relative ease. For example, machines with implementcarriers can provide an actuator between the implement carrier and thelift arm assembly, so that removing or attaching an implement does notinvolve removing or attaching an actuator from the implement or removingor attaching the implement from the lift arm assembly. The implementcarrier 272 provides a mounting structure for easily attaching animplement to the lift arm (or other portion of a power machine) that alift arm assembly without an implement carrier does not have.

Some power machines can have implements or implement like devicesattached to it such as by being pinned to a lift arm with a tiltactuator also coupled directly to the implement or implement typestructure. A common example of such an implement that is rotatablypinned to a lift arm is a bucket, with one or more tilt cylinders beingattached to a bracket that is fixed directly onto the bucket such as bywelding or with fasteners. Such a power machine does not have animplement carrier, but rather has a direct connection between a lift armand an implement.

The implement interface 270 also includes an implement power source 274available for connection to an implement on the lift arm assembly 230.The implement power source 274 includes pressurized hydraulic fluid portto which an implement can be removably coupled. The pressurizedhydraulic fluid port selectively provides pressurized hydraulic fluidfor powering one or more functions or actuators on an implement. Theimplement power source can also include an electrical power source forpowering electrical actuators and/or an electronic controller on animplement. The implement power source 274 also exemplarily includeselectrical conduits that are in communication with a data bus on theexcavator 200 to allow communication between a controller on animplement and electronic devices on the loader 200.

Frame 210 supports and generally encloses the power system 220 so thatthe various components of the power system 220 are not visible in FIGS.2-3 . FIG. 4 includes, among other things, a diagram of variouscomponents of the power system 220. Power system 220 includes one ormore power sources 222 that are capable of generating and/or storingpower for use on various machine functions. On power machine 200, thepower system 220 includes an internal combustion engine. Other powermachines can include electric generators, rechargeable batteries,various other power sources or any combination of power sources that canprovide power for given power machine components. The power system 220also includes a power conversion system 224, which is operably coupledto the power source 222. Power conversion system 224 is, in turn,coupled to one or more actuators 226, which can perform a function onthe power machine. Power conversion systems in various power machinescan include various components, including mechanical transmissions,hydraulic systems, and the like. The power conversion system 224 ofpower machine 200 includes a pair of hydrostatic drive pumps 224A and224B, which are selectively controllable to provide a power signal todrive motors 226A and 226B. The drive motors 226A and 226B in turn areeach operably coupled to axles, with drive motor 226A being coupled toaxles 228A and 228B and drive motor 226B being coupled to axles 228C and228D. The axles 228A-D are in turn coupled to tractive elements 219A-D,respectively. The drive pumps 224A and 224B can be mechanically,hydraulic, and/or electrically coupled to operator input devices toreceive actuation signals for controlling the drive pumps.

The arrangement of drive pumps, motors, and axles in power machine 200is but one example of an arrangement of these components. As discussedabove, power machine 200 is a skid-steer loader and thus tractiveelements on each side of the power machine are controlled together viathe output of a single hydraulic pump, either through a single drivemotor as in power machine 200 or with individual drive motors. Variousother configurations and combinations of hydraulic drive pumps andmotors can be employed as may be advantageous.

The power conversion system 224 of power machine 200 also includes ahydraulic implement pump 224C, which is also operably coupled to thepower source 222. The hydraulic implement pump 224C is operably coupledto work actuator circuit 238C. Work actuator circuit 238C includes liftcylinders 238 and tilt cylinders 235 as well as control logic to controlactuation thereof. The control logic selectively allows, in response tooperator inputs, for actuation of the lift cylinders and/or tiltcylinders. In some machines, the work actuator circuit 238C alsoincludes control logic to selectively provide a pressurized hydraulicfluid to an attached implement. The control logic of power machine 200includes an open center, 3 spool valve in a series arrangement. Thespools are arranged to give priority to the lift cylinders, then thetilt cylinders, and then pressurized fluid to an attached implement.

The description of power machine 100 and loader 200 above is providedfor illustrative purposes, to provide illustrative environments on whichthe examples discussed below can be practiced. While the technologydiscussed can be practiced on a power machine such as is generallydescribed by the power machine 100 shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1and more particularly on a loader such as track loader 200, unlessotherwise noted or recited, the concepts discussed below are notintended to be limited in their application to the environmentsspecifically described above.

FIG. 5 illustrates aspects of a control system 280 that can be used tocontrol certain functionalities of a power machine, including the powermachine 200 of FIGS. 2 and 3 . The control system 280 includes acontroller 282, which can, for example, be configured as a general orspecial purpose electronic processing device in communication with amemory 284. In some examples, the control system 280 can include one ormore controllers. For example, some power machines may include dedicatedcontrollers for engine control, drive control, operator input, display,radio/entertainment, and hub operations, with appropriate communicationchannels (e.g., buses, which can be physical or wireless) extendingamong the controllers and between the controllers and other components(e.g., sensors, wireless communication modules, etc.). In some examples,multiple controllers may be combined as modules within a common controldevice (e.g., as different software or hardware modules for a singlecontroller). In this regard, the one or more controllers can beconsidered to be configured as dedicated controllers or as beingintegrated into a larger control device.

To allow delivery of operator input commands, one or more input devices,represented generally by input device(s) 286, are in communication withthe controller 282. Operators can generally manipulate the inputdevice(s) 286 to provide user input signals to the controller 282,including according to well-known input and data transmission protocols.In some examples, one or more of the input devices 286 can be configuredas a combination input/output device, according to a variety of knownconfigurations.

In some examples, the input device(s) 286 can include a user inputinterface 287. For example, the user input interface 287 can beconfigured as a display device, that can receive input from a user viathe display itself (e.g., a touchscreen display device) or via one ormore input devices such as buttons, switches, and/or a keypad or othersuitable devices associated with the display and can provide informationto the user based on signals received from the controller 282 or othersources. The use input interface 287 can also be a series of inputdevices such as described above that can be manipulated by the operatorwithout a corresponding display.

In some examples, multiple input devices can be configured to providecommands, receive signals, or otherwise control operations of the powermachine. In the illustrated example, the controller 282 is in alsocommunication with an input device configured as a start mechanism 288,as well as with the power conversion system 224 (see also FIG. 4 ), theactuators 226 (see also FIG. 4 ), and the work actuator circuit 238C(see also FIG. 4 ). Thus arranged, the controller 282 can receive aninput from the start mechanism 288 to prompt a commanded startup of thepower source 222 (e.g., an internal combustion engine), as well as otherinputs to selectively operate devices of the power conversion system224, the actuators 226, auxiliary systems 289 (e.g., HVAC systems,radios, etc.), or the work actuator circuit 238C, and thereby control avariety of power machine functionality.

According to one example, the start mechanism 288 can be configured asan ignition switch (or power switch), including a switch operated with aphysical key, a button, a toggle, etc. In some cases, a start mechanism288 can be integrated with another one of the input device(s) 286,including the user input interface 287. In some cases, activation of astart mechanism 288 can trigger startup operations generally, as well asstartup of a power source (e.g., can also trigger initializationoperations for the user input interface 287, or for other subsystems ofthe control system 280).

Generally, a variety of other configurations are also possible,including configurations in which a control system is in communicationwith additional or different functional sub-systems of a power machine.Correspondingly, the principles of access and operational controldiscussed herein can be readily applied with regard to a variety ofdifferent power machine functionality or power machine sub-systems.Further, although the controller 282 is illustrated schematically as asingle component, other configurations can include multiple controllers,as noted above, that can be distributed about a power machine orelsewhere.

Through appropriate configuration of the control system 280 or othersimilar control systems, a power machine can be configured so thatparticular power machine functionality (e.g. full, partial, or zerofunctionality) may be available during startup processes. Further, asappropriate, additional power machine functionality can be madeavailable once authorization for an operator has been appropriatelyverified, including via a wireless connection between a mobile deviceand the power machine to identify the presence of an authorized user andany associated preferences or limitations.

For example, the controller 282 can be configured to implement atemporary startup mode during a startup process for the power machine,under which limited power machine functionality is selectively enabledat one or more of the power source 222 (e.g., via control of the startmechanism 288), hydraulic workgroup systems (e.g., via work actuatorcircuit 238C of FIG. 4 ), the power conversion system 224, the actuators226, the auxiliary systems 289, or other relevant power machine systems.Correspondingly, certain other power machine functionality may not beenabled by the controller 282 (e.g., may be locked out) while the powermachine 200 is in the startup mode.

While still operating within a startup mode, the control system 280 canalso employ known wireless communication protocols to identify potentialwireless connections with one or more mobile devices and to establishwireless connections with the device(s), as appropriate. For example,the availability of certain mobile devices can be identified usingBluetooth or other short-range communication protocols and then aconnection can be established accordingly to permit wireless exchange ofinformation (e.g., IMEI or other identifiers for a mobile device).Alternatively, a mobile device can employ known wireless communicationprotocols to identify the control system 280 and establish wirelessconnection with the control system. However, only those mobile devicesthat have been previously associated with the control system 280 (suchas by a pairing operation via a Bluetooth protocol) can establish such awireless connection with the control system.

Once a mobile device has been thus identified, the control system 280can determine, based on the identification of the mobile device, whetherand how power machine functionality should be made available. Forexample, if a wireless connection indicates that a mobile device isassociated with an operation profile that includes particularpermissions and operational preferences, the control system 280 canallow operation of the power machine according to those permissions andpreferences. In contrast, if a wireless connection is not establishedwith a mobile device, or is established with a mobile device that is notassociated with an operation profile, the control system 280 canaccordingly continue to permit limited (e.g., no) power machinefunctionality (e.g., according to predetermined permissions of a startupmode).

In this regard, referring now to FIG. 6 as well as FIG. 5 , an examplestartup process method 300 for accessing functionality of the powermachine 200 is presented, as may be generally executable by thecontroller 282 and the control system 280 (FIG. 5 ). Although referenceis made to the power machine 200 in particular, the methods disclosedherein, including as illustrated in FIG. 6 , can generally beimplemented with any variety of other power machines.

According to the illustrated example, the method 300 can begin at block302 by placing the power machine 200 in a startup mode. For example, thecontrol system 280 can initialize the user input interface 287 (see FIG.5 ) or provide input to other devices that are operatively connected toa power source (e.g., battery) of the power machine 200. In someexamples, an operator can trigger execution of the method 300 bymanually actuating the start mechanism 288 (e.g., to a run position) toactivate a power source (e.g., start an engine). Correspondingly, uponactuation of the start mechanism 288, power can be applied to one ormore computing devices on the power machine 200, including the userinput interface 287, in order to allow access to limited power machinefunctionality at block 304 according to permissions of the startup mode.

As generally noted above, during a startup mode that defines limitedpower machine functionality, an operator of the power machine 200 may bepermitted to have an engine or other main power source activated, or maybe permitted operations only as powered by an ancillary power source(e.g., small battery), but also may not be able to command operation ofcertain actuators (e.g., workgroup actuators) or execute certainoperations (e.g., move a lift arm, increase engine speed beyond idle, ortravel at faster than a threshold ground speed). According to otherexamples, however, limited power machine functionality can include zeroaccess to power machine functions. In this regard, for example, certaincomputerized systems may be initialized, but may not be available foractual control of operation of the power machine, even if a main powersource (e.g., engine) has been started. Note that in some cases, thepower machine may not have an engine but an electric power source suchas a battery pack. On such machines, a battery power management systemmay prohibit the transmission of electric power to actuators untilcommunication with the mobile device has been established.

In some cases, the user input interface 287 can be powered on during astartup mode such that the operator can manipulate the user inputinterface 287 in order to control certain functions of the power machine200, such as one or more devices of the auxiliary systems 289. Accordingto some examples, the limited functionality of the power machine 200during a startup mode can correspond to limited access for operation ofone or more work elements, such as the work actuator circuit 238C, theauxiliary hydraulic system 291, the power conversion system 224, varioustractive elements, and so on.

Generally, operation of a power machine in startup mode may correspondto initiated operation of a power machine from an unpowered state (e.g.,with the engine not running). In some cases, however, a power machinecan be otherwise placed (at block 302) in startup mode. For example, apower machine can sometimes operate in startup mode (e.g., with limitedpower machine functionality) after an engine has already been started,due to an intervening operator action or other event (e.g., a locking ofa touchscreen or other input device).

Continuing, the controller 282 can also be configured to establish awireless connection to a mobile device 290 (e.g., over Bluetooth orWi-Fi communication) at block 306. According to some examples, thecontroller 282 can automatically begin searching for a wirelessconnection to a mobile device 290 upon receiving power (e.g., after apower machine is placed in the startup mode at block 302), althoughother sequences are possible, including sequences in which one or morewireless connections can be made before a startup mode begins. Accordingto other examples, a mobile device can sense the presence of thecontroller 282 and establish (at block 306) a connection to thecontroller.

Using the established wireless connection with the mobile device 290from block 306, the controller 282 can then identify what operationalprofile(s) have been associated with the mobile device 290. In somecases, once a connection is established at block 306, the controller 282can identify if the mobile device 290 is associated 310 with one or moreoperation profiles for the power machine 200. For example, the powermachine 200 can store (e.g., in the memory 284) one or more operationprofiles that correspond to one or more operating modes of the powermachine 200 that can correspond to one or more operation environments.Thus, based on an association between a mobile device and one or moreoperation profiles and an established connection with the mobile device(e.g., from operations at block 306), the controller 282 can provide anoperator an opportunity to select from at least two operation profilesto relevantly determine what power machine functionality is authorizedfor a particular operation environment. If only one operation profile isavailable, an operator will not need to select an operation profile, itwill be selected automatically.

Thus, for example, for a power machine that is currently operating withlimited power machine functionality, if the controller 282 establishes aconnection with the connected mobile device 290 at block 306 and acorresponding operation profile for the power machine 200 is selected,the controller 282 can sometimes allow, at block 308, access toadditional power machine functionality that corresponds to thepermissions or settings of the selected operation profile. According tosome examples, the allowed additional power machine functionality fromoperations at block 308 can include operation of tractive elements ofthe power machine 200 or can include operation of work elements. Forexample, a user may not be permitted to drive the power machine 200 orto operate a lift arm or implement of a power machine during startupmode, but may be permitted to execute that functionality once aconnection with an associated mobile device has been established atblock 306, based on permissions with an associated operator profile.According to some examples, for particular operators, the allowedadditional power machine functionality of block 308 can include fullpower machine functionality, with no restrictions to access.

As discussed above, the power machine 200 can store a plurality ofoperation profiles, and each operator profile can include one or moreoperational preferences, one or more operating permissions (e.g., listsor qualifications for permitted or blocked functionality), or one ormore other settings, any of which may (or may not) be unique to aparticular operator. In this regard, for example, an operator profilecan include settings for preferences for auxiliary system 289 functions,for operation of the power conversion system 224, auxiliary hydraulicsystem 291, or work actuator circuit 238C, and so on. In some cases,operational limits for these systems can be set within an operatorprofile, including limits for vehicle speed, limits for work elementoperation speeds, geographic limits, and so on. Thus, according to oneexample, and operator profile for an operator with a particular level ofexperience can include permissions appropriate for that level ofexperience, which may include partial or full limits on operatingparticular work elements.

In some cases, an operation profile can be established by an operatorvia interaction with the user input interface 287 (see FIG. 5 ).According to other examples, an operation profile can be establishedwhen the power machine is manufactured by loading the pre-definedoperation profiles into the controller 282 either before or during thepower machine manufacturing process.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-10 as well as FIG. 5 , various example userinterfaces for the user input interface device 287 are illustrated. FIG.7 illustrates a user interface 400 for displaying a current mobiledevice status 402, based on an established connection with a firstmobile phone 290 that is associated with a corresponding operatorprofile. In addition, the user interface 400 also displays potentialconnections 404 with mobile devices 290, 290′ within detection range ofthe controller 282. Thus, for example, an operator can be presented withchoices to connect with (or disconnect from) a desired mobile device290, 290′ among the list of potential connections 404. Alternatively (oradditionally), as previously described, the controller 282 can sometimesdetermine a sequence for connections based on proximity, signalstrength, or a predetermined priority list.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example user interface 400′ for creating anassociation 406 between a mobile device 290 that is within detectionrange of the controller 282, and an operator profile 410 of the powermachine 200. Although a variety of approaches are possible, the userinterface 400′ can provide a relatively simple process to associate amobile device with the operator profile 410. For example, after anoperator has indicated appropriate authorization to use the powermachine 200 (e.g., via a different mobile device, a manual input, etc.)and has identified the operator profile 410 as relevant to the operator(e.g., via an earlier log-in by the operator), the user interface 400′can automatically (or upon request) provide an option to associate theoperator profile 410 with a connected (or available) mobile device.Thus, for example, where the mobile device 290 is already connected to apower machine, an operator may be able to associate the mobile device290 with the operator profile 410 with relative ease, including bysimply selecting a “Create Key” (or similar) icon or button.

According to some examples, to create the association with the mobiledevice 290, it may be required that the relevant operator profile is notalready associated with a mobile device. According to some examples, tocreate the association with the mobile device 290, it may be requiredthat the mobile device 290 is not previously associated with anotheroperator profile. According to some examples, only select operators(e.g., administrators) may be permitted to associate a particular mobiledevice with a particular operator profile.

In some cases, removing an association between a mobile device and anoperator profile can proceed similarly, but with reverse effect. Forexample, FIG. 9 illustrates an example user interface 400″ for deletingan association 408 between the mobile device 290 and the operatorprofile 410 of the power machine 200. Thus, for example, an operator mayalso be able to remove an association of the mobile device 290 with theoperator's profile with relative ease, including by simply selecting a“Delete Key” (or similar) icon or button. According to some examples,the association between the mobile device 290 and the operator profile410 can be removed regardless of whether the mobile device 290 iscurrently wirelessly connected to the power machine 200. According tosome examples, only select operators (e.g., administrators) may bepermitted to remove an association of a particular mobile device with aparticular operator profile.

In some cases, an association with a particular operator profile can beeasily switched between different mobile devices. For example, FIG. 10illustrates an example user interface 400′″ for switching an association412 between the mobile device 290 and an operator profile 410 of thepower machine 200 to an association between another mobile device 290′and the operator profile 410. Thus, for example, an operator may also beable to switch associations between mobile devices and the operator'sprofile with relative ease, including by simply selecting a “ReplaceKey” (or similar) icon or button. This can be beneficial, for example,should an operator wish to change mobile devices, or to associate adifferent one of multiple mobile devices with an operator profile.

In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can beutilized, manufactured, or configured using methods embodying aspects ofthe disclosed technology. Correspondingly, any description herein ofparticular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device orsystem is generally intended to include disclosure of a method of usingsuch devices for the intended purposes, of a method of otherwiseimplementing such capabilities, of a method of manufacturing relevantcomponents of such a device or system (or the device or system as awhole), and of a method of installing or utilizing disclosed (orotherwise known) components to support such purposes or capabilities.Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein ofany method of manufacturing or using of a particular device or system,including installing the device or system, is intended to inherentlyinclude as examples of the disclosure, components or systems with theutilized features and the implemented capabilities of such device orsystem.

In some implementations, aspects of this disclosure, includingcomputerized implementations of methods according to this disclosure,can be implemented as a system, method, apparatus, or article ofmanufacture using standard programming or engineering techniques toproduce software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof tocontrol a processor device or a computer (e.g., a processor deviceoperatively coupled to a memory) to implement aspects detailed herein.Accordingly, some examples can be implemented as a set of instructions,tangibly embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable media, such thata processor device can implement the instructions based upon reading theinstructions from the computer-readable media. Some examples can include(or utilize) a device such as an automation device, a special purpose orgeneral purpose computer including various computer hardware, software,firmware, and so on, consistent with the discussion below.

The term “article of manufacture” as used herein is intended toencompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readabledevice, carrier (e.g., non-transitory signals), or media (e.g.,non-transitory media). For example, computer-readable media can includebut are not limited to magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppydisk, magnetic strips, and so on), optical disks (e.g., compact disk(CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), and so on), smart cards, and flashmemory devices (e.g., card, stick, and so on). Additionally, a carrierwave can be employed to carry computer-readable electronic data such asthose used in transmitting and receiving electronic mail or in accessinga network such as the Internet or a local area network (LAN). Thoseskilled in the art will recognize many modifications may be made tothese configurations without departing from the scope or spirit of theclaimed subject matter.

Certain operations of methods according to some examples, or of systemsexecuting those methods, may be represented schematically in the FIGS.or otherwise discussed herein. Unless otherwise specified or limited,representation in the FIGS. of particular operations in particularspatial order may not necessarily require those operations to beexecuted in a particular sequence corresponding to the particularspatial order. Correspondingly, certain operations represented in theFIGS., or otherwise disclosed herein, can be executed in differentorders than are expressly illustrated or described, as appropriate forparticular implementations. Further, in some examples, certainoperations can be executed in parallel, including by dedicated parallelprocessing devices, or separate computing devices configured tointeroperate as part of a large system.

As used herein in the context of computer implementation, unlessotherwise specified or limited, the terms “component,” “system,”“module,” and the like are intended to encompass part or all ofcomputer-related systems that include hardware, software, a combinationof hardware and software, or software in execution. For example, acomponent may be, but is not limited to being, a processor device, aprocess being executed (or executable) by a processor device, an object,an executable, a thread of execution, a computer program, or a computer.By way of illustration, both an application running on a computer andthe computer can be a component. One or more components (or system,module, and so on) may reside within a process or thread of execution,may be localized on one computer, may be distributed between two or morecomputers or other processor devices, or may be included within anothercomponent (or system, module, and so on).

Although the present discussion refers to preferred examples, workersskilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form anddetail without departing from the scope of the discussion.

What is claimed is:
 1. A control system for a power machine, the controlsystem comprising: an input device operatively connected to a powersource of the power machine; a control device that is configured to:enable operation of the power source of the power machine based uponreceiving a signal from the input device; and after receiving the signalof the input device, restrict operation of one or more power machinefunctions for the power machine until a wireless connection isestablished between the control device and a mobile device, the mobiledevice corresponding to an operator profile for the power machine. 2.The control system of claim 1, wherein the one or more power machinefunctions for which operation is restricted includes one or more of:operation of tractive elements or operation of work elements.
 3. Amethod of operating a power machine with a user input interface, themethod comprising: upon receiving an initial user input to activate apower source for the power machine, placing the power machine in astartup mode; based on placing the power machine in the startup mode,providing limited access to power machine functionality according topermissions of the startup mode; via a controller in communication withthe user input interface, searching for one or more mobile devices;establishing a wireless connection between a mobile device and the powermachine to identify an association between the mobile device and anoperator profile for the power machine; and based on identifying theassociation between the mobile device and the operator profile, allowingaccess to additional power machine functionality that corresponds to theoperator profile.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the permissions ofthe startup mode include operation of a power source of the powermachine, but not operation of one or more work elements.
 5. The methodof claim 3, wherein the additional power machine functionality isdistinct from operation of the power source and includes one of more of:operation of tractive elements or operation of work elements.
 6. Themethod of claim 5, wherein the additional power machine functionalityincludes full power machine functionality.
 7. The method of claim 3,wherein the mobile device includes one of a mobile phone, a tablet, alaptop, or a personal digital assistant.
 8. A power machine comprising:a power source; an operator station; a user input interface within theoperator station, including an input device configured to receive inputfor activation of the power source by an operator in the operatorstation; one or more tractive elements configured to move the powermachine; one or more work elements configured to be operated for workoperations using power from the power source; and a control systemconfigured to: activate the power source based upon a signal from theinput device responsive to an operator input; and after activating thepower source: initially provide limited access to power machinefunctionality; establish a wireless connection with a mobile device thatcorresponds to an operator profile; and based upon establishing thewireless connection and after initially providing the limited access topower machine functionality, provide access to one or more additionalpower machine functions based on one or more settings associated withthe operator profile.
 9. The power machine of claim 8, wherein thecontrol system is further configured to: before establishing thewireless connection with the mobile device, identify potential wirelessconnections with a plurality of mobile devices, including the mobiledevice; and prioritize establishing the wireless connection with themobile device based on one or more of proximity, signal strength, or apredetermined priority list.
 10. The power machine of claim 8, whereinthe user input interface further includes a display configured toreceive an activation code; and wherein the control system is configuredto bypass receipt of the activation code via the display, based onestablishing the wireless connection.